Why sign in to the Community?

  • Submit a question
  • Check your notifications
Sign in to the Community or Sign in to TurboTax and start working on your taxes
New Member
posted Apr 12, 2025 11:46:43 AM

widowed since 2006 can I file widowed?

how long can I file widowed

0 1 131
1 Replies
Expert Alumni
Apr 12, 2025 11:52:33 AM

No. This is not allowed after the second year of filing a return when a spouse dies (married filing jointly in the year of death and then and only if there are children dependents. 

  • Taxpayers can claim the qualifying surviving spouse filing status if all of the following conditions are met: You were entitled to file a joint return with your spouse for the year your spouse died. Have had a spouse who died in either of the two prior years. You must not remarry before the end of the current tax year.
  • Surviving Spouse - Understanding Taxes -Filing Status

You must file single unless you do have children dependents. You can review the details for head of household filing status to see if you qualify.